Ventura, CA – Local charity Hope’s Haven Children’s Charity has donated 10 iPads to the pediatric unit at Community Memorial Hospital.

The CMH pediatric unit averages two to three patients per day and has five beds.Critically injured and seriously ill children in Ventura County who receive either in-patient or out-patient care, along with their families, benefit as Hope’s Haven improves their quality of life with toys, financial assistance and VIP experiences. The siblings of these children benefit as they are included in the events and they are the recipients of gifts as well.

“While many children spend their days sitting in a classroom, playing at the park and having sleepovers, many of our children are being treated for illnesses or injury,” said Megan Meeker, CMH’s director of Maternal & Children's Health Services. “The iPads serve as a distraction and some fun during a difficult time for a child hospitalization or treatment, providing a sanitary alternative to toys and books while being a positive distraction during treatment.”

Hope’s Haven is working with the Ventura County medical community to place iPads in hospital pediatric beds. “They provide a vehicle for kids to keep up on school work, connect with friends and family through social media, as well as provide entertainment with movies, games and apps while they are going through the treatment process,” Hope’s Haven committee Chairman Sean Copeland said.

Meeker also points out that the iPad project yields positive results. “The simple offering of an iPad can help to cast a more positive light on a difficult situation,” she said. “With the iPad, the time goes faster, children are having fun, they are learning and they are given the opportunity to stay connected with their peers.”

Hope’s Haven Children’s Charity is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for Ventura County children facing life-threatening illnesses and serious injuries. Through the support of local communities and annual fundraising events, Hope’s Haven works directly with hospitals, clinics and social workers to provide financial and emotional support for families.

Community Memorial Hospital is a member of Community Memorial Health System, a not-for-profit health system, which is comprised of Community Memorial Hospital, Ojai Valley Community Hospital, and 12 family-practice health centers entitled Centers for Family Health. The health system is located in Ventura County, California.